Anti-illegal immigration champion Rep. Tom Tancredo, R-Colo., sponsored the measure, which he says would apply to cities such as Denver and Boulder. He was elated by its passage, which stunned critics and supporters alike.

The Littleton Republican's amendment to the Department of Homeland Security appropriations bill appears to have no language specifically defining a sanctuary city. Denver Mayor John Hickenlooper has long disputed giving the city that label.

" ... appears to have no language specifically defining a sanctuary city"? Sounds more tokenism than substance to me.

It's a step in the right direction. The Democrat support for the bill--234-189, with no fewer than 49 Democrats voting in favor--is a good sign. Is it a sign of things to come as the second Senate showdown looms next week?